OAP's clothes caught alight
AN investigation into the death of an 88- year-old woman has found she died after her clothes caught fire while she attempted to put out a blaze in her home.
Ellen Baker died in hospital after suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation following a kitchen fire in Cherry Tree Road, Stapenhill, on Sunday, January 22.
In light of the tragedy, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning urging people not to tackle fires in their homes.
Group manager Mick Archer said: “This was a tragic accident, following which an elderly lady lost her life.
“It appears that a fire started in the kitchen of her property and she attempted to tackle the fire herself, however her clothing caught fire, which led to her receiving fatal injuries.
“We would urge people never to tackle fires, no matter how small the fire is or if you think you can handle it yourself — please don’t. It isn’t worth the risk.
“We understand that a fire in the home is a very traumatic and frightening experience and a lot of people try to save their home and possessions, however the most important thing to save is your life.
“If a fire occurs, close the door to that room if it is safe to do so, then get out or get to a safe area of the property if you can’t get outside, and call the fire service. Do not attempt to go back into the property or tackle the fire yourself — leave that to us.”
